Teach. Play. Love. Parenting Advice for the Early Years

One of our most popular parenting topics is back. In this episode, Rachel and Claire discuss why chores are more than household tasks. Discover how age-appropriate responsibilities help children develop confidence, independence, and a sense of accomplishment, with practical tips for getting started at every age. ______________________________________________________ Streaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Have a parenting question or story to share? Email us at [email protected] and your question could be featured on a future episode! Don't forget to subscribe to catch future episodes where we explore the real-life strategies for parenting in the early years. Follow Bright Horizons for more insights: Instagram: @brighthorizons LinkedIn: Bright Horizons Facebook: @BrightHorizons X (Twitter): @BrightHorizons Produced by Bright Horizons Family Solutions Inc.

Some parenting questions remain relevant no matter a child's age or stage. In this replay episode, early education experts Rachel Robertson and Claire Goss explore why independence and self-help skills are critical to child development and share practical ways families can help children build confidence, capability, and self-reliance. ______________________________________________________ Streaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Have a parenting question or story to share? Email us at [email protected] and your question could be featured on a future episode! Don't forget to subscribe to catch future episodes where we explore the real-life strategies for parenting in the early years. Follow Bright Horizons for more insights: Instagram: @brighthorizons LinkedIn: Bright Horizons Facebook: @BrightHorizons X (Twitter): @BrightHorizons Produced by Bright Horizons Family Solutions Inc.

What does it really mean to be "regulated" and why does it feel so much harder when kids are involved? In this episode, Claire and Rachel break down the science and the reality of emotional regulation for both children and adults. Explore. You'll learn why regulation is a skill that takes time, practice, and support to build and how to support co‑regulation with practical, playful strategies you can start using today. ______________________________________________________ Streaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Have a parenting question or story to share? Email us at [email protected] and your question could be featured on a future episode! Don't forget to subscribe to catch future episodes where we explore the real-life strategies for parenting in the early years. Follow Bright Horizons for more insights: Instagram: @brighthorizons LinkedIn: Bright Horizons Facebook: @BrightHorizons X (Twitter): @BrightHorizons Produced by Bright Horizons Family Solutions Inc.

Traveling with kids is a popular parenting topic and for good reason. In this replay of a listener‑favorite episode, Rachel and Claire share their own family travel experiences along with simple, practical tips to help you plan your next trip. Family travel isn't always easy, but it's often worth it. This episode encourages realistic expectations, getting kids involved, and savoring the moments that turn into meaningful memories. ______________________________________________________ Streaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Have a parenting question or story to share? Email us at [email protected] and your question could be featured on a future episode! Don't forget to subscribe to catch future episodes where we explore the real-life strategies for parenting in the early years. Follow Bright Horizons for more insights: Instagram: @brighthorizons LinkedIn: Bright Horizons Facebook: @BrightHorizons X (Twitter): @BrightHorizons Produced by Bright Horizons Family Solutions Inc.

One of the easiest ways to support your young child's development? Everyday back-and-forth interactions. In this episode, Rachel and Claire explain "serve and return," why it matters, and how to do it – even with newborns. Plus, tips like using parentese to build language and connection. No apps, no flashcards, just you and your child. ______________________________________________________ Streaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Have a parenting question or story to share? Email us at [email protected] and your question could be featured on a future episode! Don't forget to subscribe to catch future episodes where we explore the real-life strategies for parenting in the early years. Follow Bright Horizons for more insights: Instagram: @brighthorizons LinkedIn: Bright Horizons Facebook: @BrightHorizons X (Twitter): @BrightHorizons Produced by Bright Horizons Family Solutions Inc.

Biting, hitting, kicking, yelling "I hate you!" – big behaviors can overwhelm young children and adults alike. Why do these outbursts happen and how can you respond? Early childhood experts Rachel Robertson and Claire Goss unpack the common causes behind physical aggression, how to handle it in the moment, and what you can do to help your child build healthier emotional and communication skills. ______________________________________________________ Streaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Have a parenting question or story to share? Email us at [email protected] and your question could be featured on a future episode! Don't forget to subscribe to catch future episodes where we explore the real-life strategies for parenting in the early years. Follow Bright Horizons for more insights: Instagram: @brighthorizons LinkedIn: Bright Horizons Facebook: @BrightHorizons X (Twitter): @BrightHorizons Produced by Bright Horizons Family Solutions Inc.

Bedtime can be sweet… or a total showdown. In this episode, we unpack why young kids resist sleep and share simple, proven strategies to make evenings calmer. From creating a routine that sticks to giving kids choices that work, you'll learn how to turn bedtime from chaos to connection. Tune in for tips you can use tonight! ______________________ Streaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Have a parenting question or story to share? Email us at [email protected] and your question could be featured on a future episode! Don't forget to subscribe to catch future episodes where we explore the real-life strategies for parenting in the early years. Follow Bright Horizons for more insights: Instagram: @brighthorizons LinkedIn: Bright Horizons Facebook: @BrightHorizons X (Twitter): @BrightHorizons Produced by Bright Horizons Family Solutions Inc.

Struggling with picky eating at home? You're not alone! In this episode, Rachel and Claire explain why picky eating is a typical occurrence with young kids and share practical, research-backed tips to make mealtimes less stressful. Learn how to introduce new foods without pressure, create a positive mealtime routine, and keep nutrition on track without turning your kitchen into a short-order diner. Streaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Have a parenting question or story to share? Email us at [email protected] and your question could be featured on a future episode! Don't forget to subscribe to catch future episodes where we explore the real-life strategies for parenting in the early years. Follow Bright Horizons for more insights: Instagram: @brighthorizons LinkedIn: Bright Horizons Facebook: @BrightHorizons X (Twitter): @BrightHorizons Produced by Bright Horizons Family Solutions Inc.

Join us live from the NAEYC Annual Conference as we celebrate 25 years of Bright Horizons' Growing Readers program and explore how to spark a lifelong love of reading. ___________ Hosts Claire and Rachel share research on nationwide declining reading habits, why early literacy matters, and practical tips for families – from creating cozy reading spaces and choosing high-quality books to making reading fun with props, voices, and routines. Hear insights from seasoned educators on fostering joy in reading for infants, toddlers, and beyond. ___________ Streaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Have a parenting question or story to share? Email us at [email protected] and your question could be featured on a future episode! Don't forget to subscribe to catch future episodes where we explore the real-life strategies for parenting in the early years. Follow Bright Horizons for more insights: Instagram: @brighthorizons LinkedIn: Bright Horizons Facebook: @BrightHorizons X (Twitter): @BrightHorizons Produced by Bright Horizons Family Solutions Inc.

Ever heard your child's teacher mention "agency" and wondered what it actually means? In this episode, Claire and Rachel unpack this buzzword and explore how agency—your child's ability to make choices, take initiative, and persist through challenges—can shape everything from friendships to future careers. With relatable stories, expert-backed insights, and practical strategies you can use at home (yes, even with toddlers!), we'll help you nurture confidence and independence in your little one—without adding another item to your parenting to-do list. Streaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Have a parenting question or story to share? Email us at [email protected] and your question could be featured on a future episode! Don't forget to subscribe to catch future episodes where we explore the real-life strategies for parenting in the early years. Follow Bright Horizons for more insights: Instagram: @brighthorizons LinkedIn: Bright Horizons Facebook: @BrightHorizons X (Twitter): @BrightHorizons Produced by Bright Horizons Family Solutions Inc.

Meltdowns, tantrums, and emotional overloads—young children feel big, and sometimes it all spills out. In this episode, Claire and Rachel share practical strategies for helping children navigate overwhelming moments, whether it's a new routine, a big life change, or just a tough day. With relatable stories and expert-backed tips, you'll learn how to support your child's emotional regulation while staying grounded yourself. Streaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Have a parenting question or story to share? Email us at [email protected] and your question could be featured on a future episode! Don't forget to subscribe to catch future episodes where we explore the real-life strategies for parenting in the early years. Follow Bright Horizons for more insights: Instagram: @brighthorizons LinkedIn: Bright Horizons Facebook: @BrightHorizons X (Twitter): @BrightHorizons Produced by Bright Horizons Family Solutions Inc.

In this special episode, Claire and Rachel settle into a fresh new studio to tackle some of the parenting questions that matter most—straight from the parents in the Bright Horizons community. From tantrums and bedtime meltdowns to navigating mismatched parenting styles and anxiety about school drop-offs, our hosts break down the why behind kids' behavior and offer grounded, expert-backed strategies you can use today. *** Streaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Have a parenting question or story to share? Email us at [email protected] and your question could be featured on a future episode! Don't forget to subscribe to catch future episodes where we explore the real-life strategies for parenting in the early years. Follow Bright Horizons for more insights: Instagram: @brighthorizons LinkedIn: Bright Horizons Facebook: @BrightHorizons X (Twitter): @BrightHorizons Produced by Bright Horizons Family Solutions Inc.

While separation anxiety can be tough for both parents and children, it's reassuring to know it happens because we love each other so very much. Establishing daily routines and rituals – paired with patience and grace -- will help your child trust the process. And YOU can find comfort in knowing that your child is in good hands, even on the most difficult days.

In this repeat episode, we explore effective strategies and resources for helping children navigate current world events and manage their emotions. Learn how to discuss stressful topics with your child and provide emotional support for both them and yourself.

Join us for a replay of one of our classic episodes! "Having Fun Playing with Your Kids" Listen to this episode of Teach. Play. Love. To learn why play is one of the most important things a child can do each day and get advice on how to have fun playing with your kids. Play allows children to experiment with concepts and ideas to make sense of the world around them. Setting aside time each day to play with your child can foster their growth and development, as well as create lasting family memories. In this episode of Teach. Play. Love., you'll hear why play is so very important and you'll get actionable ideas on how to have fun playing with your kids.

It's not just nature vs. nurture — it's nature AND nurture. Join Rachel and Claire as they dive into the research and explore various parenting styles, including which one best serves children as they grow and thrive.

The nurturing relationships and interactions that children have in their first 5 yrs are instrumental to developing true kindness later on. Join Claire and Rachel as they discuss strategies to foster and encourage kindness in your child. Modeling behavior, labeling your emotions, establishing values and more, all help your child grow up with the type of real empathy that will be valuable throughout childhood, adolescence and beyond.

Pretend play is fun and a fundamental aspect of healthy child development! Join Rachel and Claire as they discuss the stages of imaginary play, why this type of play is so critical for a growing brain and body, and ways to encourage more pretend pay at home.

Join us for a replay of one of our classic episodes! "What happened to my world?" "Am I going to be okay — will everyone be okay?" When stress and trauma disrupt your child's life, what can you say and do to help them feel safe and secure? Early childhood experts Rachel Robertson and Claire Goss say the four pillars of security — people, places, routines, and rituals — can guide your child through difficult times. On this episode, learn how to bring these pillars to life and find out how you can use them to offer reassurance and reduce the effects of toxic stress.

Join early education experts Rachel Robinson and Claire Boss at the NHSA Parent and Family Engagement Conference as they delve into the essential role of confidence in children's development. Discover practical strategies and insights to help parents and educators foster resilience and self-belief in young minds.

At what age should a child understand the concept of sharing, and how can we equip them with the tools to develop this important life skill? In this replay of a past episode, join our early childhood experts Rachel Robertson and Claire Goss as they discuss developmentally appropriate expectations around taking turns and sharing, how to practice and model sharing with your child, and when it's actually okay not to share.

Discover why teaching independence and self-help skills makes a big impact on child development. Early education experts Rachel Robertson & Claire Goss share practical tips to help your child gain confidence and self-reliance.

In this episode, we explore the importance of writing in child development. Child development experts, Rachel Robertson & Claire Goss, discuss how to foster writing skills in young children, the cognitive benefits of writing, and how writing can be integrated into various learning activities.

In this episode, child development experts Rachel Robertson & Claire Goss share essential parenting tips to ease the transition and help your child adjust smoothly to their new education environment. They talk about how to handle emotions for both you and your child, how to approach the logistics of your new situation, and other practical parenting tips as your child begins their early child care education.

In this episode, we explore effective strategies and resources for helping children navigate current world events and manage their emotions. Learn how to discuss stressful topics with your child and provide emotional support for both them and yourself.

This episode dives into the presence of screens in our daily lives and how they influence child development. Child development experts, Rachel Robertson & Claire Goss, discuss how to navigate screens in everyday life, recommended screen time for young children, how parental screen habits affect children, and the advantages of establishing healthy screen time practices at home.

In today's episode of Teach, Play, Love, our hosts & education experts, Rachel Robertson and Claire Goss, redefine school readiness and what you can do at home to support your child's school readiness skills.

In this episode of Teach. Play. Love. Our Education experts Rachel Robertson and Claire Goss discuss How to deal with children's tantrums. They cover why tantrums are normal, tools to handle them, the brain science behind tantrums, alternative handling methods, and tips on staying calm during a tantrum.

In this episode of Teach, Play, Love, our hosts & early childhood education experts Rachel Robertson and Claire Goss, explore the topic of friendships in early childhood. They examine how friendships and play encourage social-emotional development, how to have a successful playdate, and what to do when aggressive behavior happens between children.

In today's episode of Teach, Play, Love, our hosts & education and development experts Rachel Robertson and Claire Goss, delve into how to set limits with your young children.

In this episode, our education experts Rachel and Claire discuss the benefits of giving chores to young children. Listen for tips on what chores are best for certain ages, and learn how giving your child responsibilities leads to not only a tidier home, but also builds your child's confidence and independence.

Join Rachel and Claire as they discuss how executive function skills develop and how to work on these skills with your children as they grow and learn. As children grow and learn, they continue to develop and refine their executive function skills, which are crucial for success in school and in life. In this episode of Teach. Play. Love., Rachel and Claire will share why these skills are so important and how you can help your children strengthen these abilities throughout their life. Get parenting advice from Rachel and Claire! You can leave them a voicemail by calling 617-673-8881 and your question may be answered in a future episode of Teach. Play. Love. You can also send them an email at [email protected].

Join Rachel and Claire as they sort the fact from the fiction, redefine what matters most, and equip parents with the confidence to provide the experiences their children need to thrive now and in the future. Get parenting advice from Rachel and Claire! You can leave them a voicemail by calling 617-673-8881 and your question may be answered in a future episode of Teach. Play. Love. You can also send them an email at [email protected].

Did you have a favorite book as a child? Perhaps you remember reading with a loved one or special teacher. In this episode of Teach. Play. Love., Rachel and Claire discuss why reading to your child is so important and how to make story time a memorable bonding and learning experience. Do you need help picking out books for your kids? Check out our Growing Readers program. Growing Readers helps to share the joy of reading, cultivate an appreciation for books, and foster early literacy skills. Get parenting advice from Rachel and Claire! You can leave them a voicemail by calling 617-673-8881 and your question may be answered in a future episode of Teach. Play. Love. You can also send them an email at [email protected].

In this episode of Teach. Play. Love., explore the advantages of grandparent and extended family support, and learn how to overcome common challenges. Grandparents and other extended family members have the remarkable ability to bring joy to a child's life. When grandparents are actively involved in their grandchild's life, they can provide invaluable support to parents and also become a reliable part of a child's family system, providing nurturing and care. Join Rachel and Claire as they explore the advantages of strengthening your family village and discover effective strategies for navigating moments of conflict. Get parenting advice from Rachel and Claire! You can leave them a voicemail by calling 617-673-8881 and your question may be answered in a future episode of Teach. Play. Love. You can also send them an email at [email protected].

Listen to this episode of Teach. Play. Love., to learn why play is one of the most important things a child can do each day and get advice on how to have fun playing with your kids. Play allows children to experiment with concepts and ideas to make sense of the world around them. Setting aside time each day to play with your child can foster their growth and development, as well as create lasting family memories. In this episode of Teach. Play. Love. you'll hear why play is so very important and you'll get actionable ideas on how to have fun playing with your kids. Get parenting advice from Rachel and Claire! You can leave them a voicemail by calling 617-673-8881 and your question may be answered in a future episode of Teach. Play. Love. You can also send them an email at [email protected].

Whether you're preparing for a new baby, answering complicated questions, or encountering defiance from a toddler, it's important to give yourself grace. Guiding your children through these moments will not only help them build resilience and understanding, but will ensure they know you're there for them no matter how tricky life may get. Get parenting advice from Rachel and Claire! You can leave them a voicemail by calling 617-673-8881 and your question may be answered in a future episode of Teach. Play. Love. You can also send them an email at [email protected].

Hands-on, minds-on — that's how children learn best. When they can touch, wonder, explore, and discover, the opportunities are endless. In this episode, get expert advice from Rachel Robertson and Claire Goss on encouraging immersive and meaningful learning experiences. Plus, you'll find out how to build a foundation for happy, healthy development. Get parenting advice from Rachel and Claire! You can leave them a voicemail by calling 617-673-8881 and your question may be answered in a future episode of Teach. Play. Love. You can also send them an email at [email protected].

Are you getting ready for a family trip? Join Rachel and Claire as they share their own travel adventures and provide a practical list of tips you can implement right away as you plan your next family getaway. While traveling with kids has challenging moments, it can also be one of the most rewarding experiences your family can have. Make sure to get your children involved in planning your trip and set your own expectations that everything may not go as planned. Above all, enjoy your time together and rest assured that you're making memories that will last a lifetime! Get parenting advice from Rachel and Claire! You can leave them a voicemail by calling 617-673-8881 and your question may be answered in a future episode of Teach. Play. Love. You can also send them an email at [email protected].

Sibling relationships can be complicated—camaraderie and closeness sometimes mixed with moments of intense competition and conflict. From understanding the root causes of sibling rivalry to promoting cooperation and empathy, Rachel & Claire will navigate the intricacies of sibling relationships and explore effective strategies to foster harmony among the children in your home. Get parenting advice from Rachel and Claire! You can leave them a voicemail by calling 617-673-8881 and your question may be answered in a future episode of Teach. Play. Love. You can also send them an email at [email protected].

Raising children on your own can feel overwhelming. In addition to caring for your children, it's also vital to take care of yourself. Learn how to turn to family, friends, and even strangers for support, how to use Prime Times to build connections with your children and find reassurance in your parenting. Join Rachel and Claire as they speak candidly about their own experiences with solo parenting and remind listeners that they can find joy in the journey of solo parenting. Get parenting advice from Rachel and Claire! You can leave them a voicemail by calling 617-673-8881 and your question may be answered in a future episode of Teach. Play. Love. You can also send them an email at [email protected].

Establishing a consistent routine can not only benefit your child, but also make your life as a parent or caregiver much easier. By providing predictability and structure, routines can help everyone in the family feel more confident and prepared for each day. Be sure to give children enough time to get used to new routines and once they do, you'll see your child's independence and happiness grow! Join Rachel and Claire as they discuss the importance of routines and share tips and tricks to implement simple routines to help your children through each day.

Whether you're coming inside after fun at the playground, going from playtime to bath and bed, or even just leaving the house to go to school, transitions can cause an array of complicated feelings for our children. Learn strategies to help them through these tough moments and make the day a bit easier for everyone! Transitions can be challenging moments for children and can lead to a range of complex emotions. In this episode, Rachel and Claire offer helpful strategies to support children during transitions and make the day a little easier for parents and caregivers. Whether it's establishing routines, offering choices, or incorporating enjoyable activities, you'll learn how to approach transitions with patience, empathy, and a bit of fun.

One of the key ways we can help our children grow in life is to let them fail. While it can be difficult as a parent to see your children struggle, we know we won't always be by their side to help when things get tough. Developing a child's resilience can help them prepare to tackle future challenges. We want them to have the confidence to handle anything life throws their way. Join Rachel and Claire as they discuss why it's important to let your children experience failure and strategies to help them build a growth mindset that will last them for life.

While creative art activities may seem like something that is "just for fun," they are actually key elements to child development. Remember to let your child take charge of the artistic process! Your job is to provide the rich environment and materials. Then allow your child to take the creative lead. In this episode, Rachel and Claire discuss the importance of art, how engaging with art helps children with school readiness, and how to set up a playful and joyful art experience for your child.

While separation anxiety can be tough for both parents and children, it's reassuring to know it happens because we love each other so very much. Establishing daily routines and rituals – paired with patience and grace -- will help your child trust the process. And YOU can find comfort in knowing that your child is in good hands, even on the most difficult days.

At what age should a child understand the concept of sharing, and how do we give them tools to develop this important life skill? Join our early childhood experts Rachel Robertson and Claire Goss as they share developmentally appropriate expectations around taking turns and sharing, how to practice and model sharing with your child, and when it's actually okay not to share.

Curiosity is an important skill that enhances cognitive and social-emotional development, gives your child confidence, and contributes to their love of learning. If your child is asking you a question, instead of answering, try responding with, "what do you think?" or "let's find out." Minimizing direction and instruction will help your child build that curious mindset. Learn from our early childhood experts, Rachel Robertson and Claire Goss, about the simple strategies to make time in your day to encourage curiosity.

Small developmental milestones, such as stranger awareness and imaginative play, give children the chance to think, process, wonder, and act on their curiosity. These minor, often overlooked, milestones can signify growth in cognitive, social, emotional,language, and motor skills. Learn from our early childhood experts, Rachel Robertson and Claire Goss, about just how important these milestones are and how they play a huge role in your child's early life.

Some love math, many hate it, but we all need it. And no matter how you feel about it, it's critical to your child's development. Take another listen to this episode as Rachel Robertson and Ruth Fidino discuss appropriate math activities for your child. Go beyond counting, teach the bigger concept of numbers and what they stand for, and find out how to set up simple everyday learning experiences!